King & I Thai closing after more than three decades in business

The restaurant at 1346 LaSalle Ave. S. is closing Dec. 17, said Gary Haanpaa, owner of the King & I.

The restaurant’s lease is set to expire and the building’s owners have other plans for the space, he said.

Haanpaa said the closing is bittersweet. While it will be nice to see the 12-hour days come to an end, he’s loved the restaurant business. He hasn’t ruled opening in other location down the road.

The restaurant had the following note on its Facebook page: ”It is with great sadness that we announce we will be closing our doors for business Monday, Dec. 17 (after 32 years!) due to circumstances beyond our control. … We want to thank everyone for your continued support and dedication over the years! It’s been a good run! Thank you again and again!!!”